Everything You Need To Know Before Your DOT Physical Exam at Tebby Chiropractic And Sports Medicine Clinic
What is the DOT Physical Exam?
To get your Commercial Driving License (CDL), applicants need to pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) health exam as per the federal guidelines. The DOT exam focuses on the mental and physical ability of a commercial driver. A written and road skill test is also carried out along with the physical examination to determine the capabilities of a commercial driver. Dr. Alan Tebby who works at a Charlotte DOT Exam Center, the Tebby Chiropractic and Sports Medicine Clinic says that the DOT exam ensures that the commercial drivers can handle the exhausting long hours and schedules and the stress of driving commercial vehicles.
Do you need a DOT Physical Exam?
The question that needs to be answered right away is, do you need a DOT Physical Exam? DOT Physical Exam is not for everyone, if you fall into any of the following categories then you need a DOT Physical Exam:
You operate a motor vehicle that carries more than 15 people.
You run a motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight of over 10,000 pounds.
You are paid to operate a vehicle that carries over eight people.
You transport hazardous materials.
Where can you take DOT Physical Exam?
Tebby Chiropractic and Sports Medicine Clinic offers DOT physicals at the office. It acts as a Charlotte DOT Exam Center. You can make an appointment here.
What happens in a DOT Physical Exam?
Before the DOT Exam, you need to fill out a medical examination report form. This form should be filled properly mentioning your current or prior health conditions. These health conditions can be – loss of hearing, heart disease, paralysis, stroke, chronic pain, dizziness, kidney disease, digestive issues, anxiety problems, depression, and other such conditions.
You need to fill the form honestly and adequately without missing out any important detail or hiding any fact. If any discrepancy is found, then the certificate may be revoked.
The specialist at Tebby Chiropractic and Sports Medicine Clinic will go through the form and ask some questions. They will perform certain health checks too like a vision check, blood pressure measurement, hearing test, etc.
How often should you take a DOT Physical Exam?
Many medical certificates are valid for two years, but if you have some slightly bigger issues like high or low blood pressure, then your certificate may only be valid for one year. If your problems and health issues are major, then you may receive a certificate with a validity of 3 months. After the expiry of your certificate you can give the test again, and if you show improvement, then you may get a certificate that is valid for two years.
What if you do not pass the test?
Failing the DOT exam doesn’t necessarily prohibit you from becoming a driver. You can have a word with your doctor and improve your condition with proper treatment and then try again.